Since the NY Giants selected Darius Slayton in 2019, no team in the NFL has experienced more turnover. That said, since being selected, Slayton has been one of very few true staples of the Giants. Appearing in 76 games with the team, Slayton is now holding out of the voluntary offseason program because he wants a new contract.
Contrary to the usual tension in contract holdouts, Slayton’s situation with the Giants is different. Both sides seem confident and comfortable in agreeing to a number that makes sense. Slayton has also expressed confidence in his agent and the team to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. He’s currently in the last year of a two-year, $12 million contract.
Retaining Slayton is crucial for the Giants. With rookie wideout Malik Nabers joining the team, Slayton’s mentorship can be invaluable in helping Nabers reach his full potential. Slayton’s positive influence extends beyond the field, as he was recently honored as the Hometown Hero at the United Way’s annual Gridiron Gala.
Giants WR Darius Slayton was back in the area tonight to be honored as the Hometown Hero at the United Way’s annual Gridiron Gala. Slayton has been skipping the voluntary offseason program because he wants a new contract.
Slayton expressed confidence “we’ll come to a resolution… pic.twitter.com/zrbDAQKvli
— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) May 1, 2024
Slayton was honored with this award due to his work with NYC youth football players and the NYPD. Clearly, his presence in the community, and specifically among the youth, is something he is passionate about. If that is not a guy you want as a mentor and leader on this team, then who is?
Regarding his contract, it is still unknown whether Slayton is seeking a raise or an extension. While you never want to see holdout situations leak into training camp, you can’t blame Slayton for trying to maximize his value. Let’s hope the communication between Slayton’s camp and the Giants front office stays amicable from here on out.
With Nabers, Wan’Dale Robinson, and Jalin Hyatt all young wideouts still looking to find their footing in the league, having a veteran on the squad is incredibly important for their progress. Slayton’s contract situation has some people a bit on edge, as he has led NY in receiving in four of the past five seasons. Soon enough, we’ll find out what happens here, but the good news is that Slayton appears confident that there will be a happy ending to this story.
